A new, advanced sound system has been installed at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai. The major upgrade includes the latest loudspeaker system technologies from d&b audiotechnik, along with full-bandwidth directivity via the GSL, KSL, XSL and SL-SUB products from the company’s SL-Series, plus the very latest compact cardioid line array (CCL). The combined system delivers clean and consistent sound across the entire 17,000-capacity venue.
“At Coca-Cola Arena, we aim for five-star quality in every detail of the audience and artist experience,” said Mark Jan Kar, general manager of the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai and SVP of entertainment, content, and programming for Legends Global (MENA). “Choosing d&b audiotechnik was about more than technology – it was about partnering with a brand that our team and our technical experts truly trust. This installation represents the pinnacle of audio performance, ensuring that every seat in the house receives the same exceptional standard.”
The new solution, aimed at giving the venue’s audiences the best possible sound experience while being rider-friendly, is designed with multiple levels of coverage that can be activated or deactivated as needed by the multipurpose venue. This enables flexible control for any type of event, without compromising sound quality. The main system was finessed using d&b’s ArrayProcessing software. On the control side, a complete Milan network is implemented.
“Consistent coverage is critical,” said sound engineer Marc Carolan. “I’ve been a long-time d&b user, and I know I can rely on their systems to deliver coverage as promised. Tonality is equally important. What I love about GSL in particular is that it isn’t just a technical tool – it feels like a musical instrument. It has a very natural, musical quality that allows the art to really shine.”
“Having d&b’s modular audio systems allows us to seamlessly transform the Arena from concerts to sporting events to corporate shows, at speed and without compromise,” added Jan Kar. “That flexibility is critical given the volume and diversity of our business. This upgrade ensures we can compete with the world’s top venues – not only in terms of sound quality for artists and audiences, but also in the efficiency with which we deliver events. Our ambition is to be the region’s must-play venue, and investing in the best possible infrastructure, including audio, gives us that edge.”
